"De ware ontdekkingsreis bestaat niet uit het zoeken naar nieuwe landschappen, maar uit het kijken met nieuwe ogen." - Marcel Proust

A short climb, then a view worth framing

The first few kilometres share the trail with the GR-243, a well-known long-distance route that cuts through the Sierra de las Nieves Natural Park. No need to worry about getting lost — the red and white markers keep you nicely on track. Once you reach the Bilbao Pass, you’re rewarded with sweeping views over the Aguaya plains. Right in front of you rises the Sierra Hidalga, featuring the dramatic ‘Peineta’ peak. It looks almost deliberately placed, like nature’s own sculpture.

Across fields and into the past

The descent takes you past fields of wheat, olive trees, and the occasional stray vineyard. Halfway down, you’ll spot Venta Ramirón, an old country house that once served as an inn. Here, take the narrow path to the left, swapping the busier Camino de Yunquera for the quiet of an ancient livestock trail: the Cordel del Camino de los Pescadores.

Holm oaks, hushed paths and a fountain with a tale

You’ll pass through a grove of holm oaks where time seems to slow down. No fences, no traffic, just the scent of nature and the soft crunch of leaves underfoot. After a few kilometres, you arrive at the Pilar de Coca — a peaceful water stop where shepherds and traders used to gather. Two historic paths cross here, and the atmosphere says it all.

The final stretch: back to the present along old tracks

After briefly crossing a road (watch your step), you join the Cañada Real de Córdoba y Granada. This wide track runs parallel to the railway and leads you past the old Venta La Cordoniz inn. A short tunnel and a paved section later, you’re back where you started, near the hospital. Tired but happy, shoes dusty, phone full of photos.

Good to know:

• Distance: ± 11 km

• Difficulty: moderate

• Duration: 3 to 4 hours

• Best seasons: spring or autumn

• Bring water? Yes. Sunscreen? Also yes.

Looking for a hike that mixes city, nature, views and history without requiring alpine skills? Then Sendero Ronda – Pilar de Coca is a solid pick.